"What you see depends on where you sit…or where you fly"

Category: Grief

In honor of my mom this Mother’s Day, I will read Bossypants by Tina Fey. Not because she was bossy (even though, in her pre-retirement life as a school secretary, she could definitely BE bossy!). And also, not because I am bossy (even though I am). My stolen copy of Bossypants has been perched on … More How to Honor Mom’s Memory This Mother’s Day? With Laughter!

I had a Hallmark Moment this morning. It wasn’t pretty. Everyone who’s old enough to remember Hallmark TV specials and commercials (or who watches the Hallmark Channel now) knows this: if you have a heart at all, you’d never make it through a 60-second spot without at least a slight dampness in the corner of … More The Mother of All Hallmark Moments

Knowing how to help a friend or loved one who is in the throes of grief doesn’t always come naturally. In fact, the situation leaves many wondering what to say and how to say it, often causing us to say “nothing at all.” And if it’s difficult knowing what to say to a grieving adult, … More When a Child Grieves, We All Should Help

The past week or so has been a whirlwind of activity with holiday events and work activities (sometimes with the two rolled up into one), filling up my days…and evenings…and early mornings. Fun? You bet. But even the excitement of celebrating professional successes and spending time with friends I adore can make this girl tired … More Her Breath on My Cheek: Mom’s kiss was just the Christmas gift I needed

Originally published in Bakersfield Life, November 2015 As an only child, I treasured our holiday gatherings, filled with my large and animated extended family. As an adult, I appreciate those get-togethers even more. But now, there’s an empty chair at our holiday table. Even while part of me is looking forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas, … More Dealing With Grief During the Holiday Season

I learned today that my friend and mentor of 27 years…my former boss…has lost his life to a battle with leukemia. I count myself lucky to have considered Steve Ruggenberg a “forever friend,” and mentor at the times I have needed it most: early in my career, and recently as I explore my passion for … More In Honor of My Friend and Mentor…and Boss of Long Ago

As I look out my window, I see a big, bright yellow butterfly fluttering around. Of course I do! Mom’s on my mind today. Of course, she’s on my mind every day but we are in the midst of the “it’s been one year since” riptide. One year since she went into the hospital, one … More In My Heart and All Around — Every Day